Alex Van Pelt says criticism of Andy Dalton is 'not deserving'

Like most in the building, Alex Van Pelt doesn’t want to hear criticism about Andy Dalton.

The new Cincinnati Bengals quarterbacks coach is uniquely experienced at his job considering his past gig with Aaron Rodgers. It’s notable, then, when he goes public suggesting those who criticize Dalton are misguided.

“It’s unfortunate and it’s not deserving, that’s for sure,” Van Pelt said, according to Geoff Hobson of Bengals.com. “I’ve been around long enough to see a good quarterback and Andy is definitely a good quarterback.”

It’s an interesting angle to take, though Van Pelt can’t be expected to say anything else. Most Dalton criticism stems from his reliance on the talent around him. While true of most quarterbacks, Dalton hasn’t shown the ability to uplift the talent around him when things go awry, hence the rookie-esque numbers from a year ago.

Which isn’t to say Dalton can’t have a strong 2018, especially after upgrades to the offensive line and the arrival of guys like Van Pelt. But pair Dalton’s up-and-down career with the team’s refusal to add legitimate competition at the most important position of all and it isn’t exactly surprising some outside the Bengals criticize the starter.

Alas, the Bengals like what they’re seeing from Dalton after admitting they’re challenging him in new ways this offseason. Asking new things of a seven-year quarterback is interesting, but Van Pelt sounds confident — which could be a great thing for all involved.